Archaeologists will work in the grounds of Bannockburn House (pictured) in search of remnants of a Jacobite army camp. PIC: Courtesy of Bannockburn House Trust.

The Jacobite army was spread over several sites around Stirling with archaeologists to focus their search on the grounds of Bannockburn House, the home of Jacobite supporter Sir Hugh Patterson ,where Bonnie Prince Charlie was headquartered at the time.

It with it believed a large number of soldiers would have been stationed with him.

By January 4 1746, the Jacobites had almost surrounded Stirling with around 600 residents volunteering to defend the city.

The next morning, city magistrates went to Bannockburn to arrange the terms of surrender with Jacobites taking possession of Stirling.

The castle, however, remained out of reach to the Jacobites and was defended by Major General Blakeney and his men.

Despite the Jacobite victory at Falkirk at January 17, the siege limped on until February 1 when the Jacobites pulled out of their poorly defended position at Gowan Hill. From there, the army headed north to gather more men ahead of Culloden.

The dig at Bannockburn House hopes to add to the Jacobite history of the 17th Century mansion, which was successfully bought out by the community last year.

The Bannockburn House Trust, which has organised the dig, is hoping to create a new visitor attraction for the Stirling area and create a valuable community space where events, including weddings, can be held.

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